2017 is going to be a great year, a year in which I feel will shape my future as I reach to fulfill my dreams. To focus on my efforts, I have always needed a personal challenge to keep me on track. However, I just don’t want to rush through the race to get to the finish. I want to take time to notice all of the joys of life along the way. Training for marathons was just that challenge for me, but since I can’t run anymore (Doctor’s orders), though I still think I could, I need something to keep me grounded.
Yes, hiking has become my sanctuary. But there’s a part of me that still likes to compete. Not only against others, but against myself, to reach the end, and the reward for training hard. Remember, if you read my past posts, there’s something wrong with me. And I’m not talking about my physical issues…I’m just wired like that. Wired to try and push myself harder sometimes to the point of breaking, mentally or physically. Low self-esteem, personal insecurity, high strung, call it what you like but I’m always looking to go faster, longer, further; I’m sure you doctor-types have a classification for me.
There’s a link on my blog page to a previous goal, which was 1000 qualified race miles before I turned 50. Well, I turn 50 in 2018. This goal was cut short due to my PsA diagnosis in February of 2017. But I’m happy to say that I completed 325.1 race miles in the two years before my symptoms started to appear. I even managed to podium in a few races, which wasn’t really the goal. (read my earlier blogs.) So, what personal goal can I focus on now?
I heard of this race called the Amerithon Challenge. It’s a virtual race across America. 3,521 miles across 13 states, the world’s biggest virtual challenge. You can accumulate miles from running, swimming, walking, hiking, biking, or crawling your way across virtual America. Why have I not heard of this before now!? What, you get a cool medal? Seriously? Jan 1st 2017, I’m in…all in, now I have to ask myself, “How do I make this race personal & stay committed?” How about completing it before I turn 50. Quick math = 629 days…which equates to 5.59 miles per day…Is that reasonable? Only one way to find out, do it!
Don’t ever let your physical, mental, or any other challenge in life get in the way of achieving personal greatness and inner peace. Walk with me on this journey, because you’re not alone in this world. BE_dynamic!
The Purposeful Hiker 